A secluded and sunlit sanctuary of grand family living, space and serenity, 'Myrtle Hill' is a landmark Italianate Victorian set on an exceptional 2329 sqm approx. allotment in a prestigious cul-de-sac. Designed by architect George R. Johnson, whose notable credits include prominent Boom-era town halls and theatres, this magnificent long-held residence presents a rare opportunity to secure one of Kew's original estates, complete with a self-contained studio, swimming pool oasis and coveted dual street frontage.
One of Kew's original estates, 'Myrtle Hill' c1873 has been cherished by the same family for over 50 years and has been held by only two families across its 150-year history. The illustrious four-bedroom, three-bathroom villa retains an extraordinary sense of grandeur, with its slate roof, ashlar render and wrap-around veranda capturing garden vistas and glimpses towards the city skyline. Across the principal residence, a refined single-level interior reveals glorious heritage detail, while established botanical gardens create a wonderfully private setting.
Secure automatic-gate entry from elite Vista Avenue introduces this historic sanctuary, where a wide double-arched hallway leads to majestic formal dining and lounge rooms, each framed by ornate ceilings, broad bay windows, gilded pelmets and garden outlooks. A former ballroom, now a gracious living room, evokes the elegance of another era, with more than a suggestion of the music and movement that once filled its light-filled spaces.
A contemporary east wing opens through dual French doors to a north-oriented garden terrace. Here, a streamlined Miele/Smeg-appointed kitchen with stone benchtops and breakfast island connects with a bright family and meals area, creating a relaxed everyday heart to the home. A separate laundry and powder room add convenience, while four generously proportioned bedrooms include one with a dual-access ensuite. The family bathroom is distinguished by a clawfoot bath and frameless-glass shower.
Below, a basement-level wine cellar provides ample space for storage and tasting, complemented by a dedicated wellness area with Scandinavian cedar sauna, yoga/gym space and shower. Further features include ducted gas heating, split-system air-conditioning, security alarm, extensive storage, substantial marble fireplaces, original gaseliers converted to electricity with their original shades, and polished Baltic and Kauri pine floorboards.
Designed for memorable entertaining with family and friends, the north-facing rear garden unfolds through beautiful flowering trees and established shrubs from a brick-paved terrace to an undercover alfresco area, before opening to a substantial solar and gas-heated pool and spa. Gated access from Myrtle Avenue leads directly to a remote-control multi-car garage, above which a versatile self-contained studio provides lounge and bedroom areas, kitchenette, bathroom and split-system heating and cooling.
'Myrtle Hill' is an iconic Kew property where architectural grandeur, relaxed family living and exceptional outdoor entertaining converge. Its elevated grounds and dual street frontage create an extraordinary sense of space and flexibility, while its blue-ribbon setting places leading schools including Genazzano, Carey and MLC, Deepdene, Balwyn, Glenferrie Road and High Street shopping precincts, parklands, the Anniversary Trail, and Cotham and Burke Roads trams all within easy reach.
